Viking Electronics TBB-1B

Viking Electronics TBB-1B Talk Battery and Loop Current Booster Instruction Manual

Model: TBB-1B

1. Introduction

The Viking Electronics TBB-1B is a device designed to boost talk battery voltage and loop current for line-powered telecommunication devices. It enables the operation of various line-powered equipment, such as hands-free phones, touch-tone hot-line dialers, and digital announcers, especially in environments where the available loop current or talk battery voltage from a PABX/KSU station is insufficient. The TBB-1B also extends the maximum loop length for analog PABX/KSU stations and can be used with wireless doorbox devices.

2. Safety Information

  • Read all instructions carefully before installation and operation.
  • Do not expose the device to moisture or extreme temperatures.
  • Ensure the power adapter is connected to a suitable power source as specified.
  • Avoid opening the device casing; there are no user-serviceable parts inside.
  • Disconnect power before making any connections or disconnections.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

  • Viking Electronics TBB-1B Talk Battery and Loop Current Booster Unit
  • 120VAC/12V DC 500mA UL listed power adapter
  • Instruction Manual (this document)

4. Features

  • Boosts talk battery voltage up to 40V DC (nominal).
  • Boosts talk battery loop current up to 26mA (nominal).
  • Equipped with a Power LED that also indicates activity.
  • Passes original ringing signals through to the connected device.
  • Supports Caller ID data transmission.
  • Passes hook switch flash signals.
  • Passes CPC (Calling Party Control) signals.
  • Compatible with touch-tone dialing. Note: Not compatible with pulse/rotary dialing.

5. Setup and Installation

The TBB-1B features four screw terminals for connections. Follow these steps for proper installation:

  1. Identify Connections: The unit has terminals for "LINE IN" (from PABX/KSU station) and "DEVICE OUT" (to the line-powered device).
  2. Connect Line Input: Connect the analog telephone line from your PABX/KSU station to the "LINE IN" screw terminals on the TBB-1B. Ensure polarity is correct if specified by your PABX/KSU documentation, though the TBB-1B is generally polarity insensitive for basic operation.
  3. Connect Device Output: Connect your line-powered device (e.g., hands-free phone, hot-line dialer) to the "DEVICE OUT" screw terminals on the TBB-1B.
  4. Connect Power Adapter: Plug the provided 12V DC power adapter into a standard 120VAC outlet and connect the DC plug to the power input jack on the TBB-1B.
  5. Verify Power: The Power LED on the TBB-1B should illuminate, indicating that the unit is receiving power.

Viking Electronics TBB-1B Talk Battery and Loop Current Booster with screw terminals and power inputFigure 1: Viking Electronics TBB-1B unit showing connection terminals and power input. The device is a compact rectangular unit with screw terminals for line input and device output, and a jack for the DC power adapter.

6. Operation

Once properly installed and powered, the TBB-1B operates automatically. It continuously monitors the line and provides the necessary talk battery voltage and loop current to the connected line-powered device.

  • Power LED: The Power LED indicates that the unit is powered. During active use (e.g., a call), this LED may also show activity, confirming the booster is functioning.
  • Device Functionality: The connected line-powered device should now function correctly, receiving adequate power and signal integrity for ringing, Caller ID, hook switch flashes, and CPC signals.
  • Dialing: Ensure your connected device uses touch-tone dialing, as pulse/rotary dialing is not supported by the TBB-1B.

7. Maintenance

The TBB-1B is designed for reliable, maintenance-free operation. To ensure optimal performance and longevity:

  • Keep the unit clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit.
  • Operate within the specified environmental conditions: 0° C to 32° C (32° F to 90° F) with 5% to 95% non-condensing humidity.
  • Regularly check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.

8. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Power LED is off.No power to the unit.
  • Check if the power adapter is securely plugged into both the TBB-1B and the wall outlet.
  • Verify the wall outlet has power.
  • Ensure the correct 12V DC power adapter is being used.
Connected device does not power on or function.
  • Incorrect wiring.
  • Device requires more current/voltage than TBB-1B provides.
  • Device is faulty.
  • TBB-1B is faulty.
  • Review Section 5 (Setup and Installation) and recheck all connections.
  • Confirm the connected device is truly line-powered and its requirements are within TBB-1B specifications (40V DC, 26mA).
  • Test the line-powered device directly on a known good line if possible.
  • If the Power LED is on but the device still fails, contact technical support.
Ringing, Caller ID, or other signals are not passed.
  • Incorrect wiring.
  • Issue with the PABX/KSU line.
  • Verify "LINE IN" and "DEVICE OUT" connections.
  • Test the PABX/KSU line directly with a standard telephone to ensure it provides these signals.
Pulse/rotary dialing does not work.TBB-1B does not support pulse/rotary dialing.The TBB-1B is designed for touch-tone (DTMF) dialing only. Use a device that supports touch-tone dialing.

9. Specifications

Power:120VAC/12V DC 500mA UL listed adapter (provided)
Dimensions:76mm x 112mm x 36mm (3.0" x 4.4" x 1.4")
Shipping Weight:0.68 kg (1.5 lbs)
Environmental:0° C to 32° C (32° F to 90° F) with 5% to 95% non-condensing humidity
Loop Current to Device:26mA (nominal)
Talk Battery Output:40V DC (nominal)
Connections:(4) screw terminals
Compatibility:Touch-tone dialing (not compatible with pulse/rotary dialing)

10. Warranty and Technical Support

Viking Electronics products are designed for high reliability. For warranty information or technical assistance, please contact Viking Electronics directly. Refer to the official Viking Electronics website for the most current warranty policy and support contact details.

Viking Electronics Contact Information:

When contacting support, please have your product model (TBB-1B) and serial number ready.